January 2016 by The Vital Voice Magazine

January 2016

A THRIVING

TRANSGENDER TOMORROW

EXPERIENCE SANTECHASE.COM

7 DAYS FOR FREE!

212 N. KINGSHIGHWAY BLVD. ST.LOUIS, MO 63108

(314) 633-3020

thevitalVOICE.com

Pamper Yourself. Support the Cause. Book a 50-minute Your Choice Massage or a 50-minute Classic Facial and ask for the “Pride St. Louis Spa Package”. Guests will pay the retail rate and Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis will donate a portion of sales to Pride St. Louis, Inc. Call 314-881-5758 or visit fourseasons.com/stlouis/spa_and_salon

Void for persons ineligible to game or excluded from Lumière Place Casino for any reason. Must be age 21 or older to gamble. Gambling problem? Call 1-888-BETSOFF. ©2014 Casino One Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

“L

ife Partners for 25 Years”

Men ad an tion this d 10% Oreceive FF!

John Hummel CFO & Tim Pfeiffer President/CEO

“Business Partners for 15 Years” Featuring the revolutionary ARTAS ® ROBOTIC TRANSPLANT PROCEDURE Before Before

® After

After

Offering FREE SKYPE Consultations!

Call today to schedule your FREE hair and Scalp Analysis! (314)721-6657 1266 Andes Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63132 4

January 2016

hanshairloss.com

Gay owned since 2000

The

TRANSGENDER Issue

IMPRESSUM 7

GUEST EDITOR MTUG CO-FOUNDER SAYER JOHNSON

NIGHTLIFE 8 11 13

FIRST SIP PLAYDATES ST. LOUIS PLAYDATES KANSAS CITY

PROFILES 14 15 17

METRO TRANS UMBRELLA GROUP THE TRANSGENDER INSTITUTE GENDERQUEER BEYOND THE TYPICAL

TRANSFOURMED FOUR LIVES, ONE VOICE

TALKING WITH THE DOCS BODY AND MIND

22.

EXCLUSIVELY INCLUSIVE AMERICA’S PREMIER TRANSGENDER MODELING AGENCY RECRUITS ITS YOUNGEST STAR, ALEX.

LIFE GUIDE 27

NO THANKS FOR THE NOMPLIMENT

STYLE 28 30

HAIR BY HANS NO SECRET: ALL IS FAIR

ENTERTAINMENT 33 34 36

WHEN DIETA MET CAIT SCENE ST. LOUIS SCENE KANSAS CITY

FOOD & DRINK 39 41

TRANSGENDER EATS LAST CALL

thevitalVOICE.com

CEO & PARTNER • DARIN SLYMAN DSLY@THEVITALVOICE.COM PUBLISHER & PARTNER • JIMMY LESCH JIMMY@THEVITALVOICE.COM MANAGING EDITOR • KEVIN SCHMIDT KEVIN@THEVITALVOICE.COM ART DIRECTOR • MELANIE LAYER-GASKELL MELANIE@MELANIELAYER.COM GRAPHIC DESIGNER • GRANT SWANSON GRANT@THEVITALVOICE.COM WRITER • DENNY PATTERSON DENNY@THEVITALVOICE.COM WRITER • KARLA TEMPLETON KARLATEMPLETON1213@GMAIL.COM WRITER • KALEIGH JURGENSMEYER KMJURGENSMEYER@GMAIL.COM WRITER • TYLER BIERMAN TB6809@GMAIL.COM CONTRIBUTORS ART: DARIN SLYMAN, MELANIE LAYER-GASKELL, MARK MOORE, A.J. BROWN, KEVIN SCHMIDT, RYLEIGH, HENRY, JUSTIN HUBBELL, HEMALI ZAVERI, JAMES WHITE/E! TEXT: KEVIN SCHMIDT, DENNY PATTERSON, KARLA TEMPLETON, KALEIGH JURGENSMEYER, TYLER BIERMAN, SAYER JOHNSON, LEON AUGUSTUS BRAXTON JR. DESIGN: MELANIE LAYER-GASKELL, GRANT SWANSON ONLINE THEVITALVOICE.COM FACEBOOK.COM/VITALVOICE TWITTER.COM/VITALVOICE INSTAGRAM.COM/VITALVOICE CONTACT VITAL VOICE MAGAZINE 4579 LACLEDE AVE #268, ST. LOUIS, MO 63108 VV@THEVITALVOICE.COM 314.256.1196

25K ISSUES PRINTED MONTHLY 400+ POINTS OF DISTRIBUTION THROUGHOUT THE ST. LOUIS AND KANSAS CITY AREA

January 2016

GUEST EDITOR

WELCOME June 2013 was a turning point on many levels for our community. Pride St. Louis moved to the backdrop of The Arch and, as a community, we went from the South City neighborhood we called home to the front seat of the St. Louis community. It was growth and arrival. As the LGBTQIA community, we claimed space in the middle of the larger metro area community with pride and power. At the time of Pride 2013, there was very little organized adult transgender presence, so a small group of us decided to march in the Pride parade. We arrived with our flags in tow and took up some space with the LGBT Center of St. Louis. We were greeted with questions and confusion. We felt unseen in our own community. This ignited a fire; a fire that is flamed by the national transgender rights movement; a movement that is holding up the transgender narrative in the media, both on TV and in film. I believe that the time is now; time for the “T” to take the front seat. So much growth and cohesion has occurred in the last two and half years. We became the only organization run entirely by transgender people for transgender people. We coordinated two sold out Trans Spectrum Conferences at UMSL, co-coordinated the nation’s first Transgender Memorial Garden and an amazing TDOR service with MCC, as well as fundraisers, gatherings and intentional safer space for trans* and gender non-conforming individuals to gather

and be in a community with each other. The seed is firmly planted in opening up an “Umbrella Center” to pick up where the LGBT Center of St. Louis left off. It’s amazing! I am reminded of a quote by Margaret J. Wheatley: “There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.” I believe this rings true. I believe that we have the seeds of what is important to us as a community and we are building from there. While I am very proud of the work that the Metro Trans Umbrella Group has done so far, I know we have far to go. We need to do better and reach our most vulnerable. We need to continue to address our own privilege within the movements we belong and challenge ourselves to break down the systems of oppression. We lead ourselves with the belief that intersectional identity is the only way we will succeed. It’s time for the power to shift and to lift up transgender lives, just like our LGB siblings did when they marched in the shadow of The Arch in 2013 and 2014. Hear our narratives, engage us and empower us. We are here and are ready to be in community. Together, with pride and power, Sayer Andrew Johnson Co-Founder, Metro Trans Umbrella Group

ey ©Disn

Jimmy Lesch Publisher/Partner

The Fox Theatre • January 19-31 314-534-1111 • MetroTix.com

thevitalVOICE.com

NIGHTLIFE

FIRST SIP

ESPRESSO MARTINI First mixed in the 1980s by London bartender Dick Bradsell, the Vodka Espresso - better known as the Espresso Martini – has the simplicity of preparation combined with the uncomplicated, yet always appealing, flavor that makes it the modern classic that it is today. While the nickname implies martini, it actually is not one, made with vodka and a coffee liqueur instead. According to Bradsell, who made the drink in response to a specific request from a female guest, the coffee machine at the Soho Brasseries in London where he bartended was right next to the serving station. “It was a nightmare, as there were coffee grounds everywhere,” he said, “so coffee was very much on my mind. And it was all about vodka back then – it was all people were drinking.”

MAKE IT Tools: shaker, strainer Glass: cocktail Ingredients 2 oz. Pearl Black Vodka 1 oz. espresso ½ oz. coffee liqueur ¼ oz. simple syrup (1:1) Garnish: three coffee beans Combine the ingredients in a shaker and fill with ice. Shake until chilled and foamy, strain into glass and garnish. Text KEVIN SCHMIDT Art DARIN SLYMAN

January 2016

thevitalVOICE.com

SATURDAY & SUNDAY BRUNCH 10am-3pm Make your reservation online at GamlinWhiskeyHouse.com CENTRAL WEST END 236 N. Euclid Ave. St. Louis, Missouri 63108 314.875.9500

private event space available

GAMLIN WHISKEY HOUSE << PRIVATE EVENT SPACE | BOX LUNCHES | CATERING >> SUB ZERO VODKA BAR

SUSHI | BURGERS | VODKA private event space available CENTRAL WEST END 308 N. Euclid Ave. St. Louis, Missouri 63108 314.367.1200 Make your reservation online at SubZeroVodkaBar.com

LARGEST SELECTION OF VODKA IN THE COUNTRY 10

January 2016

STL nightlife

Playdates

SAINT LOUIS

DISNEY’S NEWSIES

19th-31st

Fabulous Fox Theatre - fabulousfox.com

They delivered the papers, until they made the headlines. Direct from Broadway comes Newsies, the smash-hit, crowd-pleasing new musical from Disney. Winner of the 2012 Tony Awards® for Best Score and Best Choreography, Newsies has audiences and critics alike calling it “a musical worth singing about.” (The New York Times) Filled with one heart-pounding number after another, it’s a high-energy explosion of song and dance you just don’t want to miss. Based on true events, Newsies tells the captivating story of a band of underdogs who become unlikely heroes when they stand up to the most powerful men in New York. It’s a rousing tale about fighting for what’s right, and staying true to who you are.

2nd-3rd

6th

9th

RATATOUILLE IN CONCERT

MARDI GRAS 12TH NIGHT

A NEW YEAR FOR THE STRAYS

Historic Soulard - stlmardigras.org Twelfth night marks the start of Carnivale or Mardi Gras season, where Soulard ushers in its favorite time of the year in style.

Renaissance Hotel - newyearforstrays.com It’s the biggest trivia night in St. Louis benefiting Gateway Pet Guardians, as well as 12 other local pet welfare organizations.

THE ANNUAL BARTENDER REVIEW

“I AM REDDY, HEAR ME ROAR”

The Emerald Room - themonoclestl.com Featuring the songs of Helen Reddy, some pop, some showtunes, some iconic, these songs will bring back memories of the 70’s and 80’s.

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET

Peabody Opera House - peabodyoperahouse.com The high voltage musical is inspired by the phenomenal true story of the famed recording session that brought together rock ‘n’ roll icons for the first and only time.

17th

21st

30th

Powell Symphony Hall - stlsymphony.org Experience the Academy Award-winning film on the big screen while the beloved score by composer Michael Giacchino is performed live by the STL Symphony.

Just John - justjohnclub.com The bartender’s review is back, where all your favorite bartenders perform in drag and give back to the community. Proceeds go to the “It Gets Better” campaign.

thevitalVOICE.com

experience

unique. authentic. fun.

January 2016

mention this ad and you'll receive a $30.00 massage credit plus $30.00 off our best available rate! 816hotel.com 816 931 1000 801 Westport Road Kansas City, MO 64111

KC NIGHTLIFE

Playdates

KANSAS CITY

LATE NIGHT THEATRE: SIDE SHOW

17th

Folly Theater - follytheater.com

They’ve made you roll at Missy B’s with their original productions, and now Late Night Theatre’s newest production, Side Show, is taking over the Folly for one night only this January. The show is the primary source of raising funds for Late Night Theatre’s next season. Acrobats, fire eaters, stunts and more will keep your entertained the whole night. Did we mention that Clueless is on the line-up for next season? Come out and support the beloved cast and crew of Late Night Theatre and help them continue entertaining the city with their off-the-wall unpredictable and simply hilarious shows.

9th

14th

BATTLE OF THE BANDS

CHARITY DRAG BINGO NIGHT

CINDERELLA AT THE BALLET

Kauffman Center - hjseries.org The Russian National Ballet Theatre will return to the Series to dance the magical full-evening story ballet, Cinderella, set to Prokofiev’s lush score.

The Point Bar & Grill - hrc.org Join the Human Rights Campaign for an event that will feature local and regional, electric and acoustic performances by some of your favorite artists.

Hamburger Mary’s - hamburgermarys.com/kc Come and have fun with the board members of Equality Kansas of Metro Kansas City and members of Oasis while raising money for a great cause!

PARTY ARTY AT THE MUSEUM

TRACY MORGAN MADEON PICKING UP THE PIECES PIXEL EMPIRE TOUR

Nelson-Atkins Museum - nelson-atkins.org Get ready to throw tradition aside and break some rules while celebrating modern and contemporary art with Kansas City’s art-loving young professionals.

Harrah’s Casino - voodookc.com Morgan’s “Picking Up the Pieces” comedy tour marks highlights him being back at it following a devastating car crash in June 2014 that left him in critical condition.

The Midland - midlandkc.com The French electronic artist’s “Pixel Empire Tour” comes to KC this month with special guest Skylar Spence, which supports his debut album, Adventure.

23rd

30th

thevitalVOICE.com

PROFILES see the St. Louis community become more involved by advocating and financially supporting MTUG.

UNITING THE ST. LOUIS TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY text DENNY PETTERSON art DARIN SLYMAN

Shortly after Pride St. Louis in 2013, Rae Larson approached Sayer Johnson about how he noticed the need for a larger transgender presence within the community. After multiple discussions and taking into consideration that there are numerous different transgender support, advocacy, education and ally groups here within the area, the Metro Trans Umbrella Group (MTUG) was formed. “The need was acknowledged by the majority of the community, and after feeling like the redheaded step kid at the family reunion, it was obvious that something needed to be done – so I proposed MTUG,” Larson says. “I contacted Sayer almost immediately as he had been doing this type of work for years and he knows how to get the resources. From the beginning, MTUG has hit ground running. Not only were we quickly sought after by organizations and companies that needed the personal information that we had, but we were also able to meet face to face with powerful people in St. Louis who could make a real, lasting change for our community.”

groups have been increasing in size so much that he and MTUG’s other board members are in the process of looking for a new office space to host the group meetings. MTUG coordinates and host many successful events such as their annual art show and Transgender Day of Remembrance gatherings. As of late, there have been talks about opening up an Umbrella Center, a gathering space for transgender and queer people as well as transgender and queer people of color. Johnson personally hopes that MTUG will continue to grow and be sustainable as an organization to impact the lives of transgender folks. “I think the ways MTUG has been beneficial to the St. Louis LGBT community are immeasurable,” he says. “We have carved out space for transgender and gender non-conforming siblings in a landscape where there was little to none. I think while personal narratives are super valuable, when we hold up just on person’s journey, we make less of an impact. With MTUG, we try to hold up a community and the deep breath of diversity we possess.

Whether one is part of another group or wishing to find a sense of community, MTUG strives to support all individuals who fall under the “umbrella term” of trans* which includes, but not limited to, transexuals (female to male or male to female), genderqueer, androgynous, drag, questioning, intersex and agender.

“MTUG means community and hope,” he continues. “MTUG means that when individuals work together to seek out space, it can be successful. MTUG means building power for transgender people, and I believe that it is vital to our movement and empowering trans* lives.”Of course, a great amount of work still needs to be done, and the transgender community still has disproportionate needs to available sources.

Currently, MTUG has 238 members. Those who are interested in MTUG can become involved by direct messaging them, attending an event, joining a committee or attending one of their many support groups. According to Johnson, support

“MTUG is slowly and surely filling those gaps,” Larson says. “It has already gathered and created a multitude of resources for the community, and I know we will continue to build bridges that benefit our lives.” Larson and Johnson both hope to

January 2016

“Give us leadership positions, value our stories, bring us to the table and most importantly, educate yourself and respect us,” Larson says. “The transgender community is facing huge, life-threatening obstacles. One in every eight transgender female and non-binary folks are murdered. It is imperative that people really hear these statistics and decide to take action; even if that is as simple as getting to know us.

“Give us leadership positions, value our stories, bring us to the table and most importantly, educate yourself and respect us,” Because MTUG has been an excellent outlet and provider to the St. Louis trans community, Vital VOICE is proud to recognize the organization as our nonprofit of the year and major benefactor to all premier Vital VOICE events. “While its is so valuable to hold up individual transgender narratives of transgender personalities, when [Vital VOICE] decided to hold up MTUG, they decided to hold up an entire community,” Johnson says. “A community working together to provide support for each other and create power.”V

SAyer Johnson Executive Director & Co Founder of MTUG

PROFILES

The

Transgender

Institute

The term “support” can and does come in many forms, and is defined in many different ways. Social support is “the perception and actuality that one is cared for, has assistance available from other people, and that one is part of a supportive social network.” In life, this supportive social network is often crucial to physical and mental health. That necessity is highlighted in the transgender community today more than ever before.

Founder and Director Caroline Gibbs is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor, nationally and internationally recognized as an educator, advocate and provider for this population. Caroline brings a deep respect for, and sensitivity to, the needs of families of origin, partners, children and friends. In addition to her many personal qualifications, Caroline has a talent for bringing together gifted professionals with a common goal. Their vast and varied specialties come together to create Transgender Growth Therapy. Dr. Danielle Tipping, Operations Manager for the Institute, is one of those gifted people. Proficient in helping patients process past trauma, depression and anxiety, she enjoys working one on one with patients to help them reach their goals. Leah Matheson is another talent of the team. A registered play therapist and counselor who specializes in treating children and families; she brings more than 10 years of experience. When speaking with Caroline, the list of services continued to grow throughout our conversation. No matter the stage of transition, the team provides guidance needed in any area of development. Common requests for advice and assistance in fashion, hair and makeup led to the addition of onsite stylist Anna McConnell, make-up specialist Monique Brown and hair stylist Alonda Lona. The Institute is also affiliated with Mirabile MD MedCosmetic, a beauty, health and wellness company specializing in non-surgical aesthetic treatments including Botox, body contouring, laser hair removal and much more. That continuously growing list of services is also continuously evolving. As no strict definition of a “final product” exists, each client truly has their own vision of what success looks like.

text KARLA TEMPLETON art DARIN SLYMAN

Many of the Institute’s clients and transgender people, in general, do not identify as binary. The Institute espouses the belief that there are more than two gender identities and provides individualized services dependent on clients’ unique gender identities. While Caroline does specialize in binary transgender clients, therapists Patti Concannon and Emily Foltz work with both binary and non-binary transgender clients. While getting clients to achieve their personal desired results in the shared goal of all who contribute to the Institute, educating the community and increasing transgender visibility is a big part of that larger picture. Gibbs has professionally contributed a lot to this piece of the puzzle. Just this year, she conceptualized a TV show about the transition process - New Girls on the Block. Once picked up by Discovery Life for a five-part series, she cast the girls and personally followed through as their therapist on the show. Community-based training is just another piece for the organization; corporations, agencies, schools, colleges, medical schools, hospitals and prisons have all benefited from the training The Transgender Institute provides. For more information on The Transgender Institute and their connected network of counselors, doctors, surgeons, stylists, voice coaches, makeup artists and overall visionaries, visit transinstitute.org. V

CORE SERVICES OFFERED

The Transgender Institute, located in the heart of the Midwest in Kansas City, Missouri, is a dedicated organization serving the transgender population through a myriad of services, known to them collectively as Transgender Growth Therapy. The Transgender Institute, in its 15 years of development and ongoing services, is making great strides in making them the go-to in all needs for the community, no matter what stage in the transition process. What was once painfully missing from the community is now an approachable, holistic and comforting resource for all who seek it.

THERAPY VOCAL FEMINIZATION VOCAL MASCULINIZATION TRANSGENDER GROUP THERAPY MENTORING PROGRAM FOR YOUNG CLIENTS & ADULTS CHILD THERAPY GENDER THERAPY & COACHING VIA SKYPE CONSULTATION FOR CLINICIANS A COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF RESOURCES & TRANS-FRIENDLY SERVICE PROVIDERS TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR COMMUNITY-BASED ORGANIZATIONS thevitalVOICE.com

#gentstl

Gent!

Mungenast Lexus of St. Louis and The Vital Voice Presents:

ST. LOUIS MENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DESIGNER SHOWCASE Produced by Brainchild Events Proceeds to benefit The Animal Protective Association

Event Details:

February 4, 2016 Doors Open at 7pm Runway show at 8pm

Be one of the first to see the new Lexus RX in person!

Featuring: Project Runway All- Star, Casanova (NYC) Paul Gibson (STL) Skif International (STL) Christian Michael (KC) Issiah Jenkins III (STL) Mister Guy (STL)

Ticket Info

www.gentstl.eventbrite.com

January 2016

PROFILES

BEYOND THE TYPICAL

text DENNY PATTERSON art RYLEIGH HENRY

In particular, questions relating to the numerous umbrella terms that many still do not understand. For example: What is genderqueer? Described as denoting or relating to a person who does not subscribe to conventional gender distinctions but identifies with neither, both or a combination of male and female genders, genderqueer is about acknowledging that gender expression and identity is not binary and that there are more than just two genders. Genderqueer encompasses individuals who feel that terms like “man” and “woman” or “male” and “female” are insufficient to describe the way they feel about their gender and/or the way they present it. In order to understand a little more about genderqueer, Vital VOICE chatted with St. Louis’ very own Tyler Cross, aka Siren, who considers themself to be labeled under the term. Class is in session.

WHILE TRANSGENDER PEOPLE AND TRANSGENDER ISSUES ARE SLOWLY BUT SURELY ENTERING INTO THE MAINSTREAM CONSCIOUSNESS, THERE ARE STILL MULTIPLE QUESTIONS THAT ARE LEFT UNANSWERED.

How do you educate people on your identify preference?

If and when people inquire, I’m happy to discuss it. As a drag artist, it does come up from time to time. I am always happy to answer people’s questions to the best of my ability. As something of a public figure in the community, I feel obligated to offer education.

What more do you think needs to be done to educate people in general on what genderqueer is?

I feel like non-traditional gender ideas need to be introduced to people earlier. People should be aware that there are more than two options and that they have the freedom to choose, and re-choose even if they wish. Unfortunately at this point, so many people are still living in the Stone Age in regards to gender. It would be great if we could somehow open conservative America’s minds.

Is this how you incorporate genderqueer in your art?

TYLER CROSS AKA SIREN

Since you identify as genderqueer, what is your definition of it?

I identify as genderqueer in the sense that I don’t really identify with a gender. I realized some years ago that much of the time I feel a personal disconnect with the idea of masculinity, but feel equally disconnected from the idea of femininity. The social/cultural idea tied to those words just aren’t me. Genderqueer makes a nice alternative for me.

What are the usual preferred pronouns for a genderqueer person?

There is no usual. Some prefer male, some female. Some prefer genderless alternatives. Some have multiple preferences. Some people prefer different pronouns in different times, places or moods. It’s always best to just ask!

What are your personal pronoun preferences?

I’d say I’m pronoun neutral. Either male or female pronouns work for me, though I don’t really care for the genderless alternatives. Direct inquiries of my gender usually amuse me and are met with mysterious responses. Small children love to ask me if I’m a boy or a girl, which I find very interesting. Its like they know at their young age that gender isn’t so black and white and are questioning it in their own way.

Have you always identified as genderqueer?

My art is genderqueer in its very nature. Cross-dressing is a queering of gender ideas. The beard, if anything, helps point out how much rigidity and structured re-enforcement of gender roles has found its way into the drag community.

How has St. Louis adapted to your bearded style?

Some people won’t book me with the beard. Other people book me in part because of it. Audiences seem to worry far less about it than other performers do. Lots of people have approached me to show their support and thank me for being different.

You think the bearded drag queen is becoming more popular within the drag community?

As more people achieve success with it, the idea spreads. You see lots of it in California and New York City, but bearded queens are popping up everywhere. It’s not like the idea is new either. Early drag was much more daring at times. The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence have been known for their bold frequently-bearded looks for years.

How has the genderqueer community changing?

It’s experiencing something of wonderful boom. The omnipresence of the Internet is making it easier for people to educate themselves on the matter and connect with other genderqueer folk. As the community grows, so does visibility and awareness.

How can genderqueer and drag coexist?

Genderqueer is such an umbrella term, and I feel that drag falls under it.

What can we be on the lookout for from the genderqueer community?

People are challenging gender at younger and younger ages all the time. As more and more of these people mature in adulthood, I think we can expect a lot of exciting change. V

I passively identified as male most of my life. It was like a factory default setting. As other options came into my view, unidentifying really appealed to me. thevitalVOICE.com

PROFILES

Transfourmed: Four LIVES, ONE VOICE The beautiful spectrum of human expression cannot be pinpointed in one individual, one trait, one part of someone’s life. We each write and sculpt who we are through our goals, dreams, struggles, and triumphs. We each seek a purpose and spend most of our lives trying to find and achieve it. We each experience love and loss, value connections, and share a bit of ourselves with the people around us. These four voices show us a part of this spectrum, allowing us a glimpse into their life and showing us a snapshot of what makes them who they are. Falling under the transgender umbrella is only one part of their identity, but it is a part that many people struggle to relate to. As we transition into a new year, hopefully this feature helps bridge understanding and build a new foundation to grow the strength of our LGBT community. V

What are you most proud of?

WhaT inspires you?

What is the biggest misconception about transgender people?

RO KICKER Hometown: Saint Louis Age: 30 Age of transition: 2104 Favorite ice cream flavor: Mint Chocolate Chip

My greatest accomplishment is being able to look back over the past few years and see positive change within my community, particularly within the transgender community, and realize that I helped to create an impact.

My close friends and inner circle (which I often call my “queerfam”) inspire me constantly. I am incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by such driven, caring, compassionate people who all want to make a difference in the world in their own way, as well as support me in all of my aspirations.

To me, the biggest misconception about transgender people is that all transgender people want to physically transition from one binary gender to another. This is actually quite harmful to the transgender community. Not everyone desires or has the resources to be able to physically transition.

What do you wish people would stop doing?

Overall, I wish that people would stop assuming my gender. I wish that I could enter a public space without being grouped into the category of “ladies.” I wish that people would stop calling me she or her, and would instead take the time to ask my pronouns, which are they/them.

Dating is diffcult to begin with – but what are some other challenges you face as a transperson?

For me, my biggest challenge is navigating public spaces where people do not know me. Because of the way that I present myself, which is often read as more masculine based on clothing and haircut, people have expectations of me that do not actually fit my personality at all.

January 2016

PROFILES

TIM LUMPKINS Hometown: Saint Louis Age: 34 Age of transition:27 Favorite ice cream flavor: Homemade butter pecan

MADISON HEATHER MCGUIRE Hometown: Saint Louis Age: 1996 Age of transition: 22 Favorite ice cream flavor: Chocolate

I am extremely proud that I was able to participate in planting and dedicating the first Transgender Memorial Garden in the United States. It was one of the most moving and powerful moments in my entire life.

About a year before I started my medical transition, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. At the time, I was balancing a full-time job and a full undergraduate course load. My mom lived about a half hour away, but every weekend while she was undergoing treatment, I visited her.

The birth of my son, followed closely by graduating from Calhoun Merchant Marine Academy, and receiving my commission as an officer in the Navel Reserve. To date, my greatest accomplishment is the publishing of my first novel, Dark Misfortunes.

I think the most influential of those has been my parents. Even when they did not understand what I was going through, their unwavering support and love helped me succeed. I am the person I am because of what my parents taught me and how they have loved me.

People who have organized within their communities across the country since the Black Lives Matter movement started. I’m inspired by the trans and gender non-conforming folks who have spoken out about the alarming number of transgender people of color who have been killed this year.

Ernest Hemingway inspires me.

I would say that the idea that trans people are somehow abnormal is one of the most detrimental. People fear that which they do not understand and by thinking of us as abnormal, they are showing that they do not understand us.

Based on a lot of the reporting that I’ve seen this year, it seems as though people don’t realize that “transgender people” are more than transgender women. Folks of any sex can express their gender or identify with gender in any number of ways.

People can ask me anything they want, whether I answer them is another story. If someone makes an attempt to get to know me as a person and then feels they need to ask me about my past, and do so respectfully, I may answer them.

One of the biggest things I would like people to stop talking about is the surgeries associated with medical transition. One of the most common questions a trans individual is likely to hear is, “Have you had the surgery yet?”

In healthcare settings, I wish that people wouldn’t make assumptions about sex based solely on appearance.

The biggest misconception about transgender people is that they all share the same identity, or fit into one cookie-cutter mold.

On top of the normal stresses and concerns which go along with dating, trans people have to worry about people reacting violently to their being trans. Too many people are verbally or physically assaulted or even murdered when a partner, or potential partner, finds out.

I haven’t had to deal with dating. I started my medical and social transition while I was already in a relationship. That relationship has since ended and I didn’t end up dating in any traditional sense. I ended up spending a lot of time with a friend who I’ve known for years and we’ve been together since last year.

I never found dating to be difficult. Dating is fun and a different adventure every time. Marriage is difficult. Being in, and maintaining a committed relationship, is difficult. Falling in love is difficult. It has always been like that for me, pre and post transition.

KARA WOLTER Hometown: Saint Louis Age: 26 Age of transition: 22 Favorite ice cream flavor: Moose Tracks

thevitalVOICE.com

PROFILES “bottom” surgery is more easily and commonly performed in the transgender female than male. However, I have seen quite successful results in transgender males.

The Facts About Gender Affirmation Procedures

As a cornerstone of your practice, this type of procedure is obviously very important to you. Why is that? I began treating transgender individuals shortly after entering clinical practice in 1979. The first few individuals who came to me for hormone therapy related that they had great difficulty finding someone to treat them, and I really didn’t understand the reluctance of physicians to help this group of individuals.

Dr. John Daniels, M.D.

Endocrinologist at Barnes Jewish Hospital www.barnesjewish.org

Describe what goes into a gender affirmation procedure medically. I treat those individuals seeking gender reassignment with appropriate hormones and medications to optimize physical transformation to the opposite sex. In other words, I treat individuals transitioning from one gender to the other with different hormones and surgery to aid in the physical changes.

What are some of the challenges that come with a procedure of this kind? Nature is not always as cooperative as many would like. Some of the physical changes take months and even years to occur. Full breast development for example, may take up to four years. Feminizing a biological male is not as easy as masculinizing a biological female. The relatively coarse features that result from testosterone, such as the adams apple, prominent forehead and lower male voice, don’t disappear with administration of estrogen. As a result, it’s common for transgender females to seek feminizing cosmetic surgery and vocal training.

I have always viewed sexuality, whether talking about sexual attraction or gender identity, like any other biological phenomenon: that is to say, it’s highly varied. As a gay man, I have no real understanding of why I am sexually attracted to other men in preference to women. And frankly, I have no understanding of why a man feels like a woman or vice-verse, but I accept both as part of nature’s diversity.

What would you say is the most rewarding part about your work in this field? Watching and helping my trans gender patients become the individuals that they want to be has been very gratifying. I have to say, that of any one group of patients that I see, the transgender group have their heads on the straightest, are the most courageous, and generally nicest group of individuals that I see. Obviously times are changing and it is becoming easier to be oneself as an LGBT individual, but we are not there yet and the political climate today is not the most encouraging. But like all civil rights movements, history is on our side. Hopefully science discoveries will give us a better understanding for the basis of this widely varied and interesting natural diversity regarding sexuality and gender. I’m very happy to be a part of all of that.

Dr. Chad Keller, Ph.D.

Licensed Psychologist in private practice Associate Professor of Psychology and Human Services at Lewis and Clark Community College www.drchadkeller.com

On the other hand, testosterone administration masculinizes a biological female, including voice lowering, quite well. So, other than “top surgery” to remove the breasts, it is rare for transgender males to seek other masculinizing cosmetic surgeries.

Obviously, the psychological side of gender affirmation is very different from the medical side. Could you describe how you approach this service?

I haven’t talked about genitals. Obviously, it is easier to remove a penis than it is to construct a penis, so that

People seek out my services in the area of gender identity for a few different reasons. The first of which are those that are in need of a letter from a mental health professional to begin

January 2016

MEET THE DOCTORS

Dr. John Daniels, M.D.

Dr. Chad Keller, Ph.D.

Endocrinologist

Licensed Psychologist in private practice

at Barnes Jewish Hospital

their gender affirmation procedure. In that case, we work to find all the necessary information that the World Professional Association of Transgender Health (WPATH) requires.

How can your services be beneficial for those in this situation?

At other times, people are seeking my services because they know that they would like to socially and/or medically transition via HRT or gender affirming surgeries. However, they also need support as they prepare to take these steps.

I am mindful as a person who does not identify as transgender, therefore I cannot speak for what their experience is and how these gender affirming medical procedures make them feel. I will say that what I see and hear is relief in being able to more fully be who they are.

Finally, I also work with people who have already affirmed their identities and have socially and/or medically transitioned but are seeking my services for all of the other reasons anybody sees a psychologist. While the focus in these instances is not directly on their gender identity, there are times in which we may consider how their gender identity impacts their experiences.

How would you describe the mental and emotional effects that you have seen from patients undergoing this type of procedure? The goal of social and medical transition is to reduce medically what is referred to as gender dysphoria and that is why everyone who socially and medically transitions will have a slightly different “transition map.” For some people, transition may just involve socially transitioning and that step allows for a comfortable reduction in their feelings of dysphoria and medical transition is not needed. However, for others, some medical affirming treatment or combination of treatments may be needed.

Do I think that there is value for clients who identify as transgender speaking to a therapist? Absolutely, but I tend to think that almost all people would benefit from speaking to a therapist as they make life decisions and changes.

On a personal level, what makes this area of expertise so important for you? I think that one of the reasons that working with transgender people is a good fit for me is because I think a common human experience is being able to be ourselves. That should be true even when other people—or even ourselves—don’t value or respect aspects of who we are. I think the goal then is how do we embrace ourselves despite these criticisms and judgments? When we are able to do that, our relationship with ourselves and the outside world improves. It’s that feeling in my patients that makes it so rewarding to me. V text TYLER BIERMAN

thevitalVOICE.com

January 2016

Exclusively inclusive Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premier Transgender Modeling Agency text DENNY PATTERSON art HEMALI ZAVERI

thevitalVOICE.com

Imagine a modeling agency where only transgender people walk the runway. An agency that sees transgender individuals as beautiful. An agency whose strong commitment is to develop transgender people as successful models because it’s never about quantifying the model’s gender. It’s about their passion to being the best model they can be and living up to their full potential. Think it’s too good to be true? Not for Cecilio Asuncion, who turned this dream into a reality. Opening its doors in downtown Los Angeles, Asuncion created Slay Model Management, the first exclusively transgender modeling agency. Asuncion is a former filmmaker who won multiple awards for his documentary, What’s the T?, which followed the lives of five different transgender women. Because of his affinity with the transgender community throughout the film, he has met a lot of wonderful friends. In a sense, this agency is his form of advocacy. “As a gay man, I feel like we’ve already done many, many strides,” Asuncion says. “So why not extend the knowledge with one another in the LGBTQIA umbrella? Since I love fashion and I love film, I feel like the best advocacy is through being the best possible version of yourself by doing what you love the most.” Slay Models was originally set to be an extension of Thailand’s Apple Model Management, which has both transgender and cisgender models on its roster. However, due to timing and other issues, Asuncion parted ways with Apple and turned Slay into his own project. One of his primary goals is to break down the barriers that have prevented transgender models from rising within the fashion industry. When Asuncion started production for What’s the T?, he really put himself out in the community instead of looking from the outside in. One of the major problems he found was unemployment. Since he has always found transgender women to be

January 2016

beautiful, he figured there was a market out there to starts a transgender modeling agency. “There is always beauty around transgender women,” he says. “Why not have a transgender modeling agency? It’s time for the world to recognize the amazing talent the transgender community has to offer. Although being transgender is the number one prerequisite for all Slay models, that not automatically guarantees that one will be signed. The doors and applications are always open, but Asuncion makes it clear that they do not just sign anyone. “I basically look for what the fashion industry standards are,” he says. “They have to be above 5’8” for women, above 5’10” for men and they have to have drive. They have to know that they want it. It’s a lot of work. It’s not like you go in and take a beautiful picture and that’s it. It’s a lot of waiting; it’s a lot of lessons in how to walk and you’re working with a lot of different personalities. I don’t treat them any different from any other agencies with any other type of model.” Asuncion hopes and envisions every model that comes through his agency ends up making a viable living out of this career. He may not wake up every morning thinking about how he can change the world, or what people may believe, but he is opening a door and changing the lives of so many transgender people for the better.

“When you’re a business owner of a start up, you just do what you got to,” he says. “I’m developing their books, making sure they walk good, finding the industry professionals who can help them with makeup and how to walk, take beautiful photos – that’s what it’s really about. We’re not asking for a leg up or anything like that. I feel like transgender models have been around even before, so how can an industry expect so much from these models, yet not be given the same opportunities? So it’s really a fair share of the real estate is what I’m offering them.” One of Slay’s most popular models is Alex from the San Francisco Bay area. At 12 years old, she is the youngest transgender girl to be part of a major modeling company. Her mother signed Alex with Slay because she is more comfortable with her daughter’s participation in the fashion industry if she is being represented by an exclusively transgender agency.

“

Don’t put anybody else’s opinion first. You are making the decision and it’s your sexuality. It can change. It’s not like it’s set in stone. It can change if you want to. Go for what makes you

”

“It makes me feel proud and makes me want to work harder to get other people aware of what it’s like to be aware of every side of the spectrum,” Alex says. “It makes me feel special in a way that’s exciting, and it makes me feel like I have some knowledge that I would like to share.” Asuncion explains that Alex is basically the little sister of the group. “Everybody wants to show her that you can go for your dreams,” he says. “She is a different dynamic and energy that we love. Even when I did What’s the T, I was hoping for younger kids to see it. To know that yes, they can go after their dreams, they can reach their full potential even when it’s tough sometimes. I think whether you’re gay, transgender, bi or lesbian, those are all things that we want.” Alex learned about Slay during the car ride home from Camp Aranu’tiq, a camp for transgender and gender-variant youth, after her mom saw a Facebook ad about a modeling agency looking for transgender models and asked if she would want to give it a try. This ended up being one of the best decisions Alex has ever made. Modeling has always been in the back of Alex’s mind. She would love to work with signature brands such as Brandy Melville, American Apparel and Chanel. However, if modeling does not work out as a full time career, she does have a backup plan. “I would like to do a job that would show people what being transgender is and that it’s not different,” she says. “I mean, it is different, but it’s

not something that anyone should be ashamed about. If you are transgender, you should be treated the same, or even better since you have more experience with having both genders.” Outside of modeling, Alex is a typical 12-yearold girl who goes to school, does her homework, hangs out with family and friends, participates in gymnastics and enjoys photography and taking videos. She has no problems juggling between school and modeling. Alex began to identify as trans at a really young age, but only identified herself as a girl because she didn’t know what the meaning of transgender was at the time. Even so, she always knew she wasn’t her assigned birth. Her family and friends have been extremely supportive throughout the whole deal. “Since I was really young, this has kind of been with me the whole time,” she says. “My parents were like, ‘Alex, I think this is what you are. I think you might be transgender.’ They weren’t forcing me to make any abrupt decisions. They just walked through it with me and I got to talk to therapists and I decided, after awhile, that I was transgender. So my parents reacted well. They were very supportive. As for my friends, not all of them know. It’s not that I’m hiding it. If it comes up, I’ll talk about it, but I don’t think there’s a need to if people aren’t asking.” “If you have any insecurities about yourself or about being transgender, I think you should think deeply about what you want to do,” Alex continues. “Don’t put anybody else’s opinion first. You are making the decision and it’s your sexuality. It can change. It’s not like it’s set in stone. It can change if you want to. Go for what makes you comfortable.” 2015 has been a year of progress for the transgender community, and the creation of Slay Model Management can be considered another major breakthrough. Transgender issues are being talked about more, but it’s too early to assume it’s all better. It is too early to tell if more transgender modeling agencies will pop up in the near future, but one can always hope. “I hope transgender modeling agencies become so normal that it’s just a part of the lay of the land,” Asuncion says. “I’m not a competitive person, but hey, at least I’ll know that I was first. With the number of applicants we have, we sadly can’t take them all, but there’s always a home for someone.” V thevitalVOICE.com

VARIETÉ

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS "Varieté is the perfect treat that sparkles with wit and charm! A Cabaret experience that references the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood and New York supper clubs with a touch of Vaudeville…. These entertainers have enjoyable voices and know their material well enough to sprinkle in the perfect amount of improvisation without loosing the heart of the music, and their guest performers add flair to the spectacle.” - Tina Farmer, KDHX Tickets at BuzzOnStage.com - 4510 Manchester Avenue, St. Louis Facebook.com/TheMonocleSTL - (314) 932-7003

January 2016

Thanks, but no thanks. We’ve all received a “compliment” with a touch of subtle shade. Urban Dictionary describes a “nompliment” as a backhanded insult disguised as a compliment, where the result is a blatant insult. But in regards to the transgender community, a blatant insult is not necessarily what the nompliment giver had in mind at all. They genuinely thought they were commending the recipient. Nonetheless, these nonpliments are a significant obstruction in communication with the transgender community today. V text KEVIN SCHMIDT art JUSTIN HUBBELL

HERE’S A RUN DOWN OF, WELL, WHAT NOT TO SAY: “Wow, you look really great! I’d never guess you were trans*.” Of course. Because most trans people don’t look great at all, right? No. Of course they look great. A certain kind of inner confidence and self-appreciation is glowing whenever someone is actually able to live their actual self. They look great because they are trans.

“That’s amazing. It’s just like a real beard.” Probably because it really is. While it may be hormonestimulated, it is actual hair growing on an actual face. It’s shaved, trimmed and styled in the same way, and is a significant representation of the person they are becoming. Such a nompliment completely undermines that.

“You’re more attractive than most ‘regular’ men/women.” This is a purely ignorant nompliment that is said too much, and should be put away forever. No transgender person is trying to be an irregular human being. They pride themselves on being their true identity, not trying to look like someone else. The comparison is null and void. They’re trans, and they’re okay with it.

“You’re so courageous.” This sounds completely acceptable on the surface, but for a trans* person, it’s just a matter or being himself or herself. It unintentionally furthers the mindset that being trans* is fundamentally different. And it’s more than just being brave; transitioning is difficult and dangerous, a side that most cis people do not understand or see.

“You pass so well.” Pass? This isn’t Halloween. The word “pass” implies a level of deceit, and no one is trying to be shady here. Furthermore, it compares it to some sort of test where you can either pass or fail. There is no wrong way in being trans*.

“How long have you been doing it?” It’s not a practice; it’s not an art form; it’s not hobby. It’s a part of life, not a scientific experiment. Furthermore, it comes off as if you are trying to understand why a transgender person could be attractive, and how long it took for them to get there. Transgender people don’t have to transition to be acceptable in anyone’s eyes.

thevitalVOICE.com

STYLE

HAIR BY HANS

A NEW ERA OF CARE text KEVIN SCHMIDT art DARIN SLYMAN

Everyone loves a good head of hair. And whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s genetics, poor maintenance or natural aging, most everyone has to deal with some sort of hair loss in one way or another. In the transgender community, a natural side effect of anyone going through a transition, whether female to male or even vice versa, is the loss of natural hair. The hormone therapy acts in a way that expedites hair loss, leaving those completing a transition with a void that needs to be filled. Hans Weimann hair restoration in St. Louis is the master specialist at this restoration, and they cater specifically to the transgender community in providing resources, from laser treatments to full on hair implants. Vital VOICE visited the Hans Weimann offices in Creve Coeur to document a hair consultation with Steph James, who transitioned more than six years ago. While Steph proudly wears her stylish wigs in lieu of natural hair, we shadowed her and her partner, Gail, to see what options she has in regards to restoring her natural hair.

January 2016

STYLE

THE CONSULTATION The consultation starts with an overview and explanation of what could potentially be best for you. During our shadowing process, we met with Sheri Bommarito, a consultant with Hans Weimann, who walked us through the steps of each specialized treatment that they offer. For starters, they offer a variety of hair systems, and no, these aren’t your grandpa’s toupees we’re talking about. “With the hair systems, you have a few options,” Sheri says. “It can be worn with a clip attachment or with a tape attachment for instant gratification.” The team at Hans Weimann will make a custom mold of your scalp to create something that is uniquely “you.” A hair and scalp analysis is where they will be able to see, up close, the “landscape” of you scalp: where your strongest follicles are, how many hairs they produce and the overall health of your scalp. This especially helps if you are interested in the laser treatment by being able to identify where your problems spots lie. “The laser program definitely will help save you the hair that you do have,” Sheri says. “You’re not going to lose any more air, but it will thicken up and strengthen, ultimately get more hair.” Following a laser treatment, you are able to get more hairs to grow out of a single follicle. Finally, you can do a transplant, which would fill in those areas that have a significant shortage of hair. For a hair transplant, Sheri explains of their newest technology out here now, the artist robotic. “It assists the doctor in taking the hair from the back of the head where it grows much more abundantly,” she explains, “and transplanting it to wherever you need it.” A transplant can be lengthy, depending on the amount of hair you’re working with. The artist robotic will scan the head to find the healthiest hair follicles, and documents each follicle in knowing width, depth and how many hairs come out of each one. “Each hair follicle that we take out can produce an average of 2.5 hairs per follicle,” Sheri says. “So if you are having a top-level transplant and taking out around 1,500 grafts, you can potentially get 4,500 hairs.” And one-by-one, the doctor will start the

transplant, working for a couple hours, and then the nurse will take over until it’s complete. “Some people just need one procedure, some need several.” Sheri explains. “After about three months, you’ll start to see the hairs come out. Six to eight months in, you’re about 75 percent of the way, and then it takes 12-15 months for those hairs to fully grow. And the hair we transplant, it’s there for life.”

THE INTERVIEW What do you hope of getting out of working with a business like Hans Weimann? First and foremost: the best hair solution that gives me minimal daily care, a natural, younger appearance and a permanent answer that is as close to a natural feminine look. I also look forward to learning from the best, as hair has been a major component of my transition. Hans, from all I’ve heard is the best. If I can model and be a part of helping my community with their hair issues, then I’ve personally gone above the bar and helped my transgender community. Tell me about any issues you have had with you hair during your transition process. When I began my transition, I was already experiencing hair loss due to genetics and excessive sun exposure. As part of my transition, a couple of medications were prescribed that were in addition to my hormonal regimen. One was to block the production of testosterone and the other was to block my body from converting the testosterone from being converted to the chemical DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which tends to block scalp hair growth. The therapy I believe was effective in preventing further hair loss but was only minimal at restoring my hair growth. I was then left with “mail pattern baldness,” a receding hairline and much less hair than I needed to satisfactorily pass as a woman. Were you aware of potential hair loss before going through your transition?

scalp hair begins to change into the male pattern baldness and thinning, just as a man might appear. So, no. I was hoping for more hair growth not less. Do you prefer wigs to natural hair? Why or why not? My dream is to be able to wear my own hair. In my case, I may be eligible for hair transplants. I am not bald and have enough donor sites to make this work. I’ve worn wigs of various types: Clip-ons, full wigs and attached hair systems, all of which are not perfect. Any style tips you can give those going through a similar situation? Try to look reasonably close to your age, or maybe a little younger. But don’t expect to look 25 when you’re 50. Be realistic. Look good, but don’t try to go over the top. Take pride in your hair. It’s the number one thing that states your femininity and is the one identifier women value above all else.

THE DECISION Following the consultation with Hans Weimann, Steph is presented with a decision to make. Laser treatments? Hair clips? Hair implants? While the possibilities are there, and options are available to suit most anyone’s needs and desires, the decision is still up to Steph. It’s important to note that this is what it’s all about, and in the words of Hans Weimann themselves, they “get it.” The entire consultation was very hands-on, informative, straightforward and simply interesting. We had fun with Steph and Gail and the team at Hans Weimann, and we looking forward to seeing what Steph chooses for herself. You can follow her story on thevitalvoice.com throughout 2016 as we will be documenting her hair restoration process along the way. V

Hans Weimann

1266 Andes Blvd. St. Louis Mo 63132 Hans Weimann.com

In Male to Female (MTF) transition, hair loss is not usually what happens, however, in Female to male (FTM) transition the thevitalVOICE.com

NO SECRET ALL IS FAIR

January 2016

STYLE

In Kansas City, a cis woman named Peregrine Honig is on an adventureto offer garments for individuals who are transitioning or who have already transitioned. Her newest shop, aptly named “All is Fair,” opens its brick and mortar storefront this month in honor of Joan of Arc. It resides in the Bauer Building on West 18th Street in the Crossroads Arts District. This area contains many femaleowned businesses and thus, makes it a fantastic area for an undergarment shop. Honig spoke of the transgender atmosphere with great regard. There have been some big moments for the transgender community lately, she noted, such as public figures coming out and people taking the time to learn proper terms. “There’s no Rosetta Stone for the transgender community – like how we are supposed to speak – so we are all on a learning curve,” Honig says. “It’s awesome because all you want to do is regard people how they want to be regarded. It doesn’t matter if they are transgender. You just want to be respectful of people.” Honig’s journey began when she found out what her transgender friends were using for compression. After doing a lot of research online, she realized that there are not many undergarment compression options available. She began a Kickstarter account to help raise the funds for her endeavor. “Kickstarter is a real interesting way to build a brand and see how people will react to something quickly,” Honig explains. “The smartest part of the Kickstarter wasn’t just the fundraiser; it was the product trial.”

In addition to fundraising, Honig sold one of her large paintings and reached out to others around her for things she will need for All is Fair to be a success. Honig reached out to Kansas City designers to see who may be willing to help create things for this new style of undergarments. “That’s one thing you have as an artist, you may not have endless money, but you have resources and heart,” she explains. People responded well to what Honig was setting out to accomplish. She found a local designer prepared to move forward and began making prototypes after the funds were raised. Now, her new shop is well on its way to changing the way people view compression garments. “Our newer garments don’t look like they are doing a lot, but they are. So that’s kind of exciting. Being sexy and feeling attractive doesn’t have a lot to do with sex; it has to do with how you feel about yourself, being comfortable and appearing in public as you feel in private.”

The current products available feel silky and smooth, each piece sewn together with precision and care. Honig explains that eventually she wants to have four basic patterns that change colors with each passing season for her customers. Perhaps one of the greatest features about All is Fair is that an individual can physically try on the product at the store and feel secure, because Honig plans to hire transgender individuals to run the shop. She has really made an effort to reach out into the transgender community to make a difference and is developing a space to provide a sense of safety, beauty and fun. What fun would shopping be if it were not taking you on an adventure? All is Fair is designed to feel like a trip to the pool. If you were to walk into the space right now you would find the floor is a brilliant blue, the large windows allow summer-esque sunshine to fill the room in the morning, and a ladder imitating ones you might see. Honig has many more ideas for the shop’s theme, and feels like she is bound by nothing. “It’s not my story,” Honig says. “I’m not transgender and so that’s really important to put on the table. I think, as an artist, I have a different sensitivity to things – a different aesthetic based on intuition.” V text AJ BROWN art AJ BROWN

THE CURRENT PRODUCTS AVAILABLE FEEL SILKY AND SMOOTH, EACH PIECE SEWN TOGETHER WITH PRECISION AND CARE.

When one conjures the image of lingerie, they are likely to use adjectives such as intimate, comfortable and alluring. While there are a plethora of places most people shop in order to find exactly what they need, transgender individuals have never had access to such a shop that caters to their needs and desires – until now.

fabric has to be really specific, has to be very symmetrical and it has to look good. We are working really hard to make garments that are cool, well-made and functional.”

They are aimed at providing individuals with the beautiful garments they desire while offering compression where it is needed. Honig explained them simply as being between compression garments and sexy loungewear. The product she is offering now is not the same as when she first began. It is important to note that this type of garment has not really been offered before, so there were a lot of things to iron out. “The process of designing a contour garment is very complicated,” Honig explains. “The thevitalVOICE.com

KARAOKE THURSDAYS 9PM W/ VOICE YOUR CHOICE WINNER DJ CHAD SLATER

Bistro 303 | 303 Westport Rd. KCMO 64111 | 816.753.2303 | www.Bistro303.com

Investigate and explore over 700 interactive exhibits and take in a film on one of the world’s largest domed screens in our OMNIMAX® Theater. Come, play and exercise your brain! General admission is always free. slsc.org

January 2016

When Dieta Met Cait text LEON AUGUSTUS BRAXTON JR. art JAMES WHITE/E!

I knew Caitlyn Jenner was coming to St. Louis six weeks before I could say anything, and it about killed me. The setting up process was very cloak and dagger. There were late night emails, phone calls and Skype interviews with the executive producers of I Am Cait. I signed a Non Discloser Agreement, and even had to have a screen test to see if my personality was fit for TV. Needless to say, I passed with flying colors. Once I passed my screen test, it was game on. I Am Cait was coming to St. Louis as a stop on the show’s tour. I was put in touch with the show’s producers through a cast member, my great friend and St. Louis’ own Van Barnes. She thought I would be good for the show and I could tell my story. Intersex had not been discussed on the show. I told the producers about Miss Leon’s Soul Food Thursdays because it is the best damn soul food in St. Louis; The Transgender Memorial Garden (TMG) for it’s historical significance being the first transgender garden in the nation; and the Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) event at MCC. The show’s producers thought all three were great, and wanted to shoot me at each location. In the meantime, the cast of I Am Cait wanted to do something for the TMG and donate a flagpole and transgender flag to the garden. However, in the fear of vandalism and theft, it was agreed upon that a memorial rock with an inserted plaque describing the garden would be more suitable. In the weeks leading up the day of the TMG dedication there was a lot of negative publicity surrounding Caitlyn, her transitional path and her political views. There was some discussion amongst myself, Sayer Johnson and Jarek Steele on whether or not to invite her at all. We didn’t want people

to not attend the dedication because of her presence or have her presence overshadow the dedication. After several reassuring calls and meetings, everyone’s concerns were satisfied. Caitlyn and the cast wanted a place to celebrate TDOR and St. Louis was their choice. I believe that Caitlyn Jenner’s appearance at the TMG dedication and TDOR Celebration was a good thing. I know that many people transgender, trans* and allies were not happy that she came. To me, the TMG dedication got much more media attention than I could have ever gotten. Caitlyn’s image drew the attention of people that otherwise would have not taken notice. Through the attention she brought, they learned about the TMG. Visibility is keen whether good or bad. As the saying goes: “There is no such thing as bad publicity.” Do I agree with everything Caitlyn has said? No. But those are her opinions, and her views are her views. We all cannot have the same views or opinions - what a boring world that would be if we did! If we banish her for her views, we are doing the same thing to her that people do to us: exclusion. When I met Caitlyn and talked to her, I found her to be very gracious and charming. She listened to my story about being Intersex and was generally interested. I didn’t get the feeling that it was an act for the camera. Let’s make it clear that I am not speaking for the transgender community, but this is my opinion. Going from being the media poster boy for all things male to being the media poster girl for all things transgender is probably a tough transition in itself. I think that she is getting her footing. Sometimes we have to remember that Caitlyn is a human being and we human beings sometimes unintentionally say the wrong thing. V thevitalVOICE.com

STL NIGHTLIFE ST. LOUIS EFFORT FOR AIDS PRESENTS

WICKED WONDERLAND

Art MARK MOORE Place BALLPARK VILLAGE

St. Louis Effort For AIDS celebrated the holidays with a unique cabaret performance by the company members of Wicked. In addition to a Meet and Greet reception with the cast, guests were treated to the sounds of St. Louis Blues icon, Kim Massie, who opened the show.

ST. LOUIS EFFORT FOR AIDS

30TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Art MARK MOORE Place THE SHELDON

It was an evening to reflect, honor and recognize many! The St. Louis Effort for AIDS celebrated 30 years of care in the community with an event at The Sheldon in Grand Center. EFA founders David J. Prelutsky, M.D. and Daniel Flier were honored, along with a special recognition to PAWS for 25 years of service. 34

January 2016

STL NIGHTLIFE TRANSGENDER DAY OF REMEMBRANCE

TRANSGENDER MEMORIAL GARDEN DEDICATION

Art MARK MOORE Place TRANSGENDER MEMORIAL GARDEN

Hundreds gathered at the Transgender Memorial Garden on Friday, Nov. 20 in honor of Transgender Day of Remembrance. The garden is the first of its kind in the nation, dedicated to the remembrance of transgender individuals who have lost their lives to intolerance.

thevitalVOICE.com

KC NIGHTLIFE LATE NIGHT THEATER PRESENTS

A Betty White Christmas Art DARIN SLYMAN Place MISSIE B’S

Late Night Theatre’s “A Betty White Christmas” celebrated the holidays, Late Night style! Vital VOICE stopped by Missie B’s on Dec. 16 to catch one of their many sold-out shows, full of the campy humor and bawdy comedy that they are best

January 2016

KC NIGHTLIFE PEARL VODKA AND VITAL VOICE PRESENT

Toys For Tots Drive

Art DARIN SLYMAN Place BISTRO 303

‘Tis the season for a Toys for Tots Drive! The holiday party of the year collected a handsome amount of toy donations for the charity, and featured two of the 2015 Voice Your CHOICE winners: Reader’s Choice Drag Queen, Daisy Bucket, who hosted the event, and DJ Chad Slater, who kept the party alive all night!

thevitalVOICE.com

DO YOU DO THESE?

INTERN WITH US! photography, writing, design and web internships available

See it now! Closing February 14! FREE admission

PRESENTED BY

JSM Charitable Trust

Missouri History Museum Lindell and DeBaliviere in Forest Park

314.746.4599 | mohistory.org

January 2016

contact: vv@thevitalvoice.com 314.256.1196

FOOD & DRINK

TRANSGENDER EATS NATURAL, ORGANIC, FARM-TO-TABLE (is that even a thing anymore?); We get it: it’s fresh. And while many of us try to do the good deed of eating right for the sake of health, supporting the local economy and living longer lives, the way one eats can also be a helpful catalyst during hormone therapy. It’s important to note that there is no “magic meal plan” that will expedite a transition, but regularly eating certain foods aids in decreasing or increasing your body’s hormones. We’ve put together a list of “transgender edibles” that should be able to satisfy, or at least sustain, most anyone’s palate. V text KEVIN SCHMIDT

F2M

M2F

Estrogen dominance is evident when it is in the body at a much higher level than other sex hormones. Whether you are looking to block estrogen, increase testosterone or both, here are a few foods to focus on when transitioning from female to male.

Several foods can assist in decreasing levels of testosterone and enhancing estrogen. Because males cannot produce estrogen in significant quantities, efforts to lower the levels of testosterone will enhance the impact of estrogen supplements taken during a transition.

Cruciferous Vegetables Think broccoli, cabbage, kale, brussel sprouts and cauliflower. This family of vegetables contains sulfur compounds, which bind to estrogen and escort it out of the body.

Soy Testosterone concentrations are inversely related with the intake of soy products. As a natural estrogen booster, soy can be easily consumed and makes a great way to quickly and easily increase your numbers.

High Zinc Foods Zinc boosts testosterone levels, plain and simple. Foods like oysters, beef, pork, turkey, chicken liver are high in zinc, tasty and filling. Green Tea Green tea is a great source for phytochemicals, which is an aid in reducing estrogen. It also naturally aids in other areas such as cancer prevention, cholesterol reduction and hypertension reduction. Hormone Free Operation: organic. These foods are not grown or raised with pesticides or added hormones.

Chickpeas Chickpeas are a natural source of phytoestrogens, which isn’t actually estrogen, but does a good job of standing in for it. Alfalfa Sprouts Eating alfalfa sprouts is unique in that they contain plant estrogens, which don’t have the side effects associated with other forms of estrogen supplementation. Licorice We’re not talking Twizzlers here, but the licorice root itself has antiandrogenic properties, which counteract male hormones.

thevitalVOICE.com

We see guys, too. HIV testing and counseling • HPV Vaccine • STD testing and treatment • Testicular cancer screenings • Vasectomy

We’ve got you covered—with or without insurance. We accept most health insurance including: Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare and more.

6 locations, one near you | 800.230.plan (7526) | www.plannedparenthood.org/stlouis

January 2016

text KEVIN SCHMIDT art KEVIN SCHMIDT place PLANTER’S HOUSE

last call

In The Midnight Hour 1.5 oz Rebel Yell Small Batch Reserve .75 oz House Infused Grapefruit Benedictine .75 oz Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice .25 oz Muroise du Val de Loire Shake/Strain/Double Rocks. Sugared Grapefruit wedge, Allspice flamed garnish

Planter’s HOUSE Located on Mississippi Avenue in Lafayette Square, Planter’s House celebrates St. Louis’s grand history of hospitality. Its name references the Planter’s House Hotel, which stood as a St. Louis landmark from 1817-1922. “It’s just a 1930s speakeasy atmosphere, with charming bartenders, filled with people who enjoy a quality drink,” Harrison explains.

HARRISON MASSIE

“The significance of Planter’s House is simple: there’s no other place you can go with the same vibe as the Bullock room,” he says. “With the quality of cocktails and food, talented and skilled bartenders, and most importantly the chance to have a charming chat or gain some booze knowledge, Planter’s House is truly an experience.”

“Yes, [In The Midnight Hour] is a Billy Idol Rebel Yell reference,” Harrison says. “And I would surely drink it with our thick cut bacon gougeres. It sounds like the perfect breakfast for dinner to me.” Harrison loves his job: plain and simple. He’s got an eye to notice something that is unique and special, and the creativity and the palate to make something original and delicious. “My favorite nights are working the bar on Friday and Saturday in the Bullock room,” he says. “It’s the best time to talk to people about booze one on one. The best part of my job is interacting with guests who are interested in what we do, and who want to learn more about the drinks and the ingredients that go in them.”

thevitalVOICE.com

January 2016

INCREASING ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE IN MISSOURI

OPEN ENROLLMENT

NOV. 15 TH 314.256.2148 stlefa.org/ACCESS

ACCESS PROJECT is a team of Certified Application Counselors (CACâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) who assist individuals and families with enrollment in the health insurance marketplace throughout Missouri. Our goal is to provide education and enrollment assistance on health insurance options that keep our community strong, healthy, covered.

December 2014

Welcoming Space